It sounds a bit contradictory but you read that right: eating more healthy fats can actually increase fat loss!

What is fat?

Fat is constructed of building blocks called fatty acids. These are classified as trans, saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated depending on their chemical structure. Some of these are essential components of the diet but too much of the wrong fats can affect our health negatively.

Types of Fats

Trans fats (The Bad Fats)

Trans fats are the least healthy fats to consume. This type of fat can be detrimental to our bodies as they increase cholesterol production, which heightens our risk for cardiac issues. These fats can be found in baked goods, fried foods, processed snacks, and fast food. It is recommended that we refrain from foods that contain high amounts of trans fats.

Saturated Fats (The Mediocre Fats)

Saturated fats are found in almost every food containing fat. They are healthier than trans fats, but consuming too much of these fats can be harmful. Saturated fat is a double-edged sword because it gets in the way of other fats. The positive is that they can replace eating unhealthy trans fats, but on the flip side they can fill you up, preventing you from eating mono and polyunsaturated fats. Saturated fats can be found in animal products such as whole and reduced-fat milk, cheese, and red meat products.

Unsaturated Fats (The Good Fats)

Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated are considered the healthiest fats. A diet rich in unsaturated fats have been shown to enhance the health benefits associated with exercise, as well as reduce hunger cravings. Both can help you achieve your fat-loss goals! In addition, they can improve blood cholesterol levels, ease inflammation, and stabilize heart rhythms. Foods high in unsaturated fats include avocados, nut butters, tree nuts, pumpkin/flax/sesame seeds and olives.

Omega-3 is a type of polyunsaturated fat. It is important to eat foods high this type of unsaturated fat since our bodies cannot make them. Fish, seeds, and nuts all high in Omega-3.

Reducing the amount of trans and saturated fats from your diet and replacing them with unsaturated fats whilst exercising regularly can boost fat loss. Try integrating these healthier fat options into your meals after a kickboxing class!